Picture from www.unwir3d.com

White space is now open for unlicensed use with FCC approval.

The FCC introduced Thursday regulations to protect the industries currently employing the spectrum while still allowing the use of white space for developing new uses and technology.

In November of 2008, the FCC unanimously voted in favor of utilizing white space, or unused TV spectrum, for wireless broadband.

Despite opposition from groups such as the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), use of white space has otherwise found strong support from companies such as Microsoft, Google and Dell for its potential use for technological advancements.

Some ways that the FCC will be governing the usage are as follows:

1. setting aside two channels for the exclusive use of venues as well as broadcaster;
2. establishing geo-locations database and sensing technology that will house the information of spectrums in use and those open for use, and;
3.  allowing for requests to be made for those that may need addition usage for the spectrum.

Prior to this release, Google in association with Spectrum Bridge and Hocking Valley Community Hospital tested wireless broadband in white space to demonstrate its effectiveness.

During testing, hospital facilities and vehicles made use of high-speed wireless through the open spectrum and even monitored their outdoor securities systems as proof of concept.

“The opportunities created by white space technologies are endless,” said FCC Commissioner Michael Copps.

Increasing the wireless coverage to underserved communities, assisting local governments as tools for creating “smart cities,” and providing wireless coverage for schools are touted as some of the imminent benefits to follow from the use of white space technology. Other benefits to the general public may include a faster more reliable wireless service, or “super wifi,” and better mobile device services.

Other topics of discussion during the FCC agenda meeting included: E-rate, program to assist schools and libraries to affordable high-speed broadband services; and E911, measures to provide a more accurate location for 9-1-1 calls made from mobile devices.

To reach reporter Jacob Chung, click here.

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